The Community Mic's Podcast Wed, 13 May 2026 03:11:06 -0400 https://www.buzzsprout.com/2523372 en-us © 2026 The Community Mic's Podcast yes 4d6872c0-242e-540b-a001-c0a5765e9d2d communitymicpodcast@gmail.com The Community Mic Pod episodic false Real stories from real people shaping our communities. The Community Mic is where local voices are heard, celebrated, and shared.

]]> Buzzsprout (https://www.buzzsprout.com) The Community Mic Pod communitymicpodcast@gmail.com https://storage.buzzsprout.com/xxtl8h84tm9ujzwzd9pilvq7x4p7?.jpg The Community Mic's Podcast What Do We Do Now, Baby?: Catherine Steele’s Story What Do We Do Now, Baby?: Catherine Steele’s Story This Mother’s Day, Maria and Steph sit down with Steph’s mom, Catherine Steele, for a heartfelt conversation about motherhood, family, growing up, and learning as we go. From dairy farms and llama shows to mom guilt, laughter, and life lessons, this episode is full of warmth, honesty, and stories that remind us how deeply love shapes a family. 

]]> This Mother’s Day, Maria and Steph sit down with Steph’s mom, Catherine Steele, for a heartfelt conversation about motherhood, family, growing up, and learning as we go. From dairy farms and llama shows to mom guilt, laughter, and life lessons, this episode is full of warmth, honesty, and stories that remind us how deeply love shapes a family. 

]]> The Community Mic Pod Buzzsprout-19153243 Sun, 10 May 2026 13:00:00 -0500 2191 Motherhood, Mothers Day, Family Stories, Parenting, Mom Life, Mother Daughter, Community, Family Relationships, Personal Stories, Women’s Stories, Life Lessons, Small Town Stories, Working Moms, Mental Health, Faith, Growing Up, Healing, Emotional Convers 2 7 full false You Won’t Amount to Anything… Until You Do: Justin Hartman’s Story You Won’t Amount to Anything… Until You Do: Justin Hartman’s Story What happens when someone tells you that you won’t amount to anything—and you prove them wrong?

Justin Hartman shares his journey from struggling student to community leader, and how mentorship, resilience, and lived experience shaped the way he shows up for others today. From rural social work to real-life barriers families face, this conversation is raw, honest, and deeply impactful.

If you’ve ever questioned your path or felt underestimated, this one will hit.

]]> What happens when someone tells you that you won’t amount to anything—and you prove them wrong?

Justin Hartman shares his journey from struggling student to community leader, and how mentorship, resilience, and lived experience shaped the way he shows up for others today. From rural social work to real-life barriers families face, this conversation is raw, honest, and deeply impactful.

If you’ve ever questioned your path or felt underestimated, this one will hit.

]]> The Community Mic Pod Buzzsprout-19071624 Fri, 24 Apr 2026 11:00:00 -0500 2400 social work, community impact, resilience, mentorship, rural communities, underserved populations, personal growth, overcoming adversity, finding your voice, leadership 2 6 full false A Coin Flip Changed Everything: Hilary Vaughn’s Story A Coin Flip Changed Everything: Hilary Vaughn’s Story This week on The Community Mic, we sit down with Hillary Vaughn, a third-year pharmacy student whose path started with a coin flip—and somehow led her exactly where she’s meant to be.

We talk about trusting your gut, going with the flow while still owning your choices, and how every experience shapes who you become. Hillary also shares her perspective on mental health advocacy, healthcare access, and what it looks like to step into the unknown after graduation.

A reminder that not everything has to be perfectly planned to work out. 🎧 Listen on Apple Podcasts & Spotify

]]> This week on The Community Mic, we sit down with Hillary Vaughn, a third-year pharmacy student whose path started with a coin flip—and somehow led her exactly where she’s meant to be.

We talk about trusting your gut, going with the flow while still owning your choices, and how every experience shapes who you become. Hillary also shares her perspective on mental health advocacy, healthcare access, and what it looks like to step into the unknown after graduation.

A reminder that not everything has to be perfectly planned to work out. 🎧 Listen on Apple Podcasts & Spotify

]]> The Community Mic Pod Buzzsprout-18961863 Sat, 04 Apr 2026 11:00:00 -0500 1318 personal story, life journey, decision making, trusting the process, pharmacy student, mental health advocacy, personal growth 2 5 full false This Is My Second Life: Roshni Kandel’s Story This Is My Second Life: Roshni Kandel’s Story “I feel like I’ve lived twice.”

In this episode, Roshni Kendall shares her journey from Nepal to the U.S., and the life-changing decision to walk away from a 13-year marriage to reclaim her peace and identity.

Through healing, spirituality, and self-reflection, she found the strength to start over—and build a life rooted in purpose and self-worth.

]]> “I feel like I’ve lived twice.”

In this episode, Roshni Kendall shares her journey from Nepal to the U.S., and the life-changing decision to walk away from a 13-year marriage to reclaim her peace and identity.

Through healing, spirituality, and self-reflection, she found the strength to start over—and build a life rooted in purpose and self-worth.

]]> The Community Mic Pod Buzzsprout-18877594 Thu, 19 Mar 2026 19:00:00 -0500 1730 personal growth, healing journey, life stories, empowerment, divorce recovery, life transition, starting over, personal transformation 2 4 full false The Power of Being Seen: Eli Rigatuso The Power of Being Seen: Eli Rigatuso In this episode of The Community Mic, we sit down with Eli Rigatuso — a storyteller, advocate, and creator behind Speaking of Happy, a series focused on uplifting LGBTQIA2S+ voices and organizations in our local community.

Eli shares his journey growing up in Nebraska, his Native heritage, and how he came to understand his identity as both transgender and Two-Spirit. From challenging gender expectations as a child to navigating family relationships and discovering himself later in life, Eli speaks openly about the moments that shaped his path.

The conversation also explores advocacy, community education, and why sharing real stories matters — especially during a time when LGBTQ+ people are often talked about but rarely truly heard.

At its heart, this episode is about dignity, identity, and the power of meeting people where they are.

]]> In this episode of The Community Mic, we sit down with Eli Rigatuso — a storyteller, advocate, and creator behind Speaking of Happy, a series focused on uplifting LGBTQIA2S+ voices and organizations in our local community.

Eli shares his journey growing up in Nebraska, his Native heritage, and how he came to understand his identity as both transgender and Two-Spirit. From challenging gender expectations as a child to navigating family relationships and discovering himself later in life, Eli speaks openly about the moments that shaped his path.

The conversation also explores advocacy, community education, and why sharing real stories matters — especially during a time when LGBTQ+ people are often talked about but rarely truly heard.

At its heart, this episode is about dignity, identity, and the power of meeting people where they are.

]]> The Community Mic Pod Buzzsprout-18798192 Thu, 05 Mar 2026 15:00:00 -0600 2459 LGBTQ stories, transgender stories, two-spirit, identity, community storytelling, advocacy, personal journey, Midwest Stories, LGBTQ community, inclusion 2 3 full false Being the Megaphone: Kate Gerber on Community Impact Being the Megaphone: Kate Gerber on Community Impact Kate Gerber, Director of Public Relations for Pottawattamie County, joins The Community Mic for a conversation full of warmth, insight, and reflection.

Kate shares her non-linear career journey, the power of recognition in public service, and why being a megaphone for community voices matters. She opens up about navigating job loss, redefining success, and building a life centered on intentional work-life integration.

We also dive into Kate’s passion for national parks, raising a “human woman of quality,” and how small moments of wonder and validation can shape who we become.

This episode is a reminder that meaningful impact doesn’t have to be loud — it just has to be real.

]]> Kate Gerber, Director of Public Relations for Pottawattamie County, joins The Community Mic for a conversation full of warmth, insight, and reflection.

Kate shares her non-linear career journey, the power of recognition in public service, and why being a megaphone for community voices matters. She opens up about navigating job loss, redefining success, and building a life centered on intentional work-life integration.

We also dive into Kate’s passion for national parks, raising a “human woman of quality,” and how small moments of wonder and validation can shape who we become.

This episode is a reminder that meaningful impact doesn’t have to be loud — it just has to be real.

]]> The Community Mic Pod Buzzsprout-18714369 Thu, 19 Feb 2026 15:00:00 -0600 2589 life stories, women empowerment, national parks, community stories, resilience 2 2 full false Dignity Is Not Conditional | Brandy Wallar on Compassion, Housing, and Hope Dignity Is Not Conditional | Brandy Wallar on Compassion, Housing, and Hope In this episode, we sit down with Brandy Wallar, CEO of New Visions Homeless Services, for an honest and deeply human conversation about homelessness, dignity, and community.

Born and raised in Council Bluffs, Brandy shares how her upbringing and a small moment of empathy as a teenager set her on a 30-year path of service. She offers real insight into low-barrier shelter work, the realities of homelessness in Western Iowa, and why compassion—not judgment—must be the starting point.

This conversation will challenge assumptions and remind listeners that people experiencing homelessness are neighbors, not problems.

]]> In this episode, we sit down with Brandy Wallar, CEO of New Visions Homeless Services, for an honest and deeply human conversation about homelessness, dignity, and community.

Born and raised in Council Bluffs, Brandy shares how her upbringing and a small moment of empathy as a teenager set her on a 30-year path of service. She offers real insight into low-barrier shelter work, the realities of homelessness in Western Iowa, and why compassion—not judgment—must be the starting point.

This conversation will challenge assumptions and remind listeners that people experiencing homelessness are neighbors, not problems.

]]> The Community Mic Pod Buzzsprout-18635991 Fri, 06 Feb 2026 09:00:00 -0600 2835 life stories, women empowerment, homelessness, community stories, resilience, dignity 2 1 full false Ink & Identity: Conversations with Topher Charnley Ink & Identity: Conversations with Topher Charnley Join Maria and Stephanie in a captivating episode where they dive into the world of tattoos with tattoo artist Topher Charnley, exploring the artistry, personal stories, and cultural shifts surrounding this unique form of expression. From the emotional connections forged in the tattoo chair to the evolving perceptions of body art, this episode offers a heartfelt and insightful look at how tattoos can transform lives and tell stories. Whether you're a tattoo enthusiast or simply curious about the art form, this episode promises to enlighten and entertain. Tune in for a journey through ink, identity, and inspiration.



]]> Join Maria and Stephanie in a captivating episode where they dive into the world of tattoos with tattoo artist Topher Charnley, exploring the artistry, personal stories, and cultural shifts surrounding this unique form of expression. From the emotional connections forged in the tattoo chair to the evolving perceptions of body art, this episode offers a heartfelt and insightful look at how tattoos can transform lives and tell stories. Whether you're a tattoo enthusiast or simply curious about the art form, this episode promises to enlighten and entertain. Tune in for a journey through ink, identity, and inspiration.



]]> The Community Mic Pod Buzzsprout-18340255 Thu, 11 Dec 2025 18:00:00 -0600 2535 1 10 full false From Heartbreak to Hope: Tiffany Eggett's Inspiring Path From Heartbreak to Hope: Tiffany Eggett's Inspiring Path In this heartfelt episode, Maria and Stephanie sit down with Tiffany Eggett to explore her journey of resilience and community impact. From her roots in Council Bluffs to the challenges of personal loss and triumph, Tiffany shares candid stories of her upbringing, family dynamics, and the pivotal moments that shaped her path. Join us as we delve into the power of storytelling, the importance of community support, and the transformative journey of finding one's voice amidst adversity.

Trigger Warning: Suicide and Drug Use

]]> In this heartfelt episode, Maria and Stephanie sit down with Tiffany Eggett to explore her journey of resilience and community impact. From her roots in Council Bluffs to the challenges of personal loss and triumph, Tiffany shares candid stories of her upbringing, family dynamics, and the pivotal moments that shaped her path. Join us as we delve into the power of storytelling, the importance of community support, and the transformative journey of finding one's voice amidst adversity.

Trigger Warning: Suicide and Drug Use

]]> The Community Mic Pod Buzzsprout-18260731 Wed, 26 Nov 2025 17:00:00 -0600 2936 1 9 full false Candid Conversations on Co-Parenting and Life: Tony Hajek Candid Conversations on Co-Parenting and Life: Tony Hajek In this episode, Maria and Stephanie explore the complexities of co-parenting, the journey of personal growth, and the challenges of navigating family dynamics with Tony Hajek. Listen in as they share candid insights on balancing work and family life, the importance of setting boundaries, and the humor found in everyday interactions. This conversation is a genuine reflection on life's ups and downs, filled with warmth and authenticity.

]]> In this episode, Maria and Stephanie explore the complexities of co-parenting, the journey of personal growth, and the challenges of navigating family dynamics with Tony Hajek. Listen in as they share candid insights on balancing work and family life, the importance of setting boundaries, and the humor found in everyday interactions. This conversation is a genuine reflection on life's ups and downs, filled with warmth and authenticity.

]]> The Community Mic Pod Buzzsprout-18171241 Tue, 11 Nov 2025 09:00:00 -0600 1487 1 8 full false Climbing Peaks and Breaking Stereotypes: Shay's Journey Climbing Peaks and Breaking Stereotypes: Shay's Journey Join us on the Community Mic as we dive into Shay's inspiring journey from retail to welding. Discover how a spontaneous hike up Pikes Peak led to a transformative career change, and hear about Shay's experiences as a female welder breaking stereotypes in a male-dominated field. From teaching art classes to leading the Wings of Steel project, Shay's story is one of courage, creativity, and community impact. Tune in for an episode filled with personal growth, unexpected turns, and the power of following your passion.

]]> Join us on the Community Mic as we dive into Shay's inspiring journey from retail to welding. Discover how a spontaneous hike up Pikes Peak led to a transformative career change, and hear about Shay's experiences as a female welder breaking stereotypes in a male-dominated field. From teaching art classes to leading the Wings of Steel project, Shay's story is one of courage, creativity, and community impact. Tune in for an episode filled with personal growth, unexpected turns, and the power of following your passion.

]]> The Community Mic Pod Buzzsprout-18089662 Tue, 28 Oct 2025 10:00:00 -0500 2181 1 7 full false Therapy Unplugged: Madison Euse on Mental Health Therapy Unplugged: Madison Euse on Mental Health In this insightful episode, Maria and Stephanie welcome Madison Euse, LIMHP, LPC, NCC, PLADC, to the Community Mic. Madison shares her journey as a mental health therapist and doctoral candidate, offering a candid look into the world of therapy. From humorous anecdotes to deep discussions on mental health, Madison's stories and experiences provide a unique perspective on personal growth and the importance of community support. Tune in for an episode filled with laughter, wisdom, and inspiration.

]]> In this insightful episode, Maria and Stephanie welcome Madison Euse, LIMHP, LPC, NCC, PLADC, to the Community Mic. Madison shares her journey as a mental health therapist and doctoral candidate, offering a candid look into the world of therapy. From humorous anecdotes to deep discussions on mental health, Madison's stories and experiences provide a unique perspective on personal growth and the importance of community support. Tune in for an episode filled with laughter, wisdom, and inspiration.

]]> The Community Mic Pod Buzzsprout-18006900 Tue, 14 Oct 2025 07:00:00 -0500 1792 1 6 full false Raised by a Changing America: Jackson Abraham Speaks on Hope and Responsibility Raised by a Changing America: Jackson Abraham Speaks on Hope and Responsibility In this episode, Maria and Stephanie engage in a heartfelt conversation with Jackson, a 17-year-old, about the challenges Generation Z faces in achieving the American Dream. They discuss the impact of previous generations' decisions, the importance of education, and the need for unity and understanding across diverse backgrounds. Jackson shares his aspirations, the influence of his family and community, and his views on the current socio-political climate.

]]> In this episode, Maria and Stephanie engage in a heartfelt conversation with Jackson, a 17-year-old, about the challenges Generation Z faces in achieving the American Dream. They discuss the impact of previous generations' decisions, the importance of education, and the need for unity and understanding across diverse backgrounds. Jackson shares his aspirations, the influence of his family and community, and his views on the current socio-political climate.

]]> The Community Mic Pod Buzzsprout-17929262 Tue, 30 Sep 2025 06:00:00 -0500 2235 1 5 full false Get to Know Zuli Garcia Get to Know Zuli Garcia Join us on the Community Mic as we delve into the inspiring journey of Zuli Garcia, the founding president of Knock and Drop Iowa, the first Latino food pantry in Des Moines. Born in El Salvador and raised in California, Zuli has dedicated her life to empowering and supporting the Latino community. Discover how her personal experiences and unwavering commitment have driven her to address food insecurity and advocate for change, making a profound impact on countless lives. Tune in to hear Zuli's story of resilience, community service, and the power of showing up for those in need.

]]> Join us on the Community Mic as we delve into the inspiring journey of Zuli Garcia, the founding president of Knock and Drop Iowa, the first Latino food pantry in Des Moines. Born in El Salvador and raised in California, Zuli has dedicated her life to empowering and supporting the Latino community. Discover how her personal experiences and unwavering commitment have driven her to address food insecurity and advocate for change, making a profound impact on countless lives. Tune in to hear Zuli's story of resilience, community service, and the power of showing up for those in need.

]]> The Community Mic Pod Buzzsprout-17850744 Tue, 16 Sep 2025 06:00:00 -0500 2807 1 4 full false Meet Jessica Duncan, an Alzheimer's advocate Meet Jessica Duncan, an Alzheimer's advocate In this episode of Community Mic, hosts Stephanie and Maria engage in a heartfelt conversation with Jessica Duncan, an Alzheimer's advocate and program director at the Alzheimer's Association. Jessica shares her personal journey, including her experiences as a caregiver for her father, who suffered from frontotemporal aphasia. The discussion underscores the significance of community engagement, advocacy, and the promise of future advancements in Alzheimer's research. Jessica's story is one of resilience, inspiration, and a commitment to making a difference in the lives of others affected by dementia.


]]> In this episode of Community Mic, hosts Stephanie and Maria engage in a heartfelt conversation with Jessica Duncan, an Alzheimer's advocate and program director at the Alzheimer's Association. Jessica shares her personal journey, including her experiences as a caregiver for her father, who suffered from frontotemporal aphasia. The discussion underscores the significance of community engagement, advocacy, and the promise of future advancements in Alzheimer's research. Jessica's story is one of resilience, inspiration, and a commitment to making a difference in the lives of others affected by dementia.


]]> The Community Mic Pod Buzzsprout-17772892 Tue, 02 Sep 2025 09:00:00 -0500 2424 1 3 full false Get to know Corey Lewis, a clinical health coach and founder of My City, My Health. Get to know Corey Lewis, a clinical health coach and founder of My City, My Health. In this episode of Community Mic, hosts Maria and Stephanie engage in a heartfelt conversation with Corey Lewis, a clinical health coach and founder of My City, My Health. Corey shares his personal journey, highlighting the impact of cultural influences on health, the challenges faced within the healthcare system, and the importance of community engagement. The discussion emphasizes the need for action in addressing health equity and the significance of small, meaningful contributions to create lasting change. Corey's story serves as an inspiration for listeners to take action in their own communities and to understand the importance of persistence in the fight for health equity.


]]> In this episode of Community Mic, hosts Maria and Stephanie engage in a heartfelt conversation with Corey Lewis, a clinical health coach and founder of My City, My Health. Corey shares his personal journey, highlighting the impact of cultural influences on health, the challenges faced within the healthcare system, and the importance of community engagement. The discussion emphasizes the need for action in addressing health equity and the significance of small, meaningful contributions to create lasting change. Corey's story serves as an inspiration for listeners to take action in their own communities and to understand the importance of persistence in the fight for health equity.


]]> The Community Mic Buzzsprout-17681131 Sun, 17 Aug 2025 13:00:00 -0500 2947 Community, clinical health coach, cultural, healthcare, health equity, community engagement 1 2 full false Meet Your Hosts: Maria & Stephanie Meet Your Hosts: Maria & Stephanie In this episode of Community Mic, hosts Maria and Stephanie engage in a heartfelt conversation about their personal journeys, exploring themes of community, mental health, and cultural identity. Maria shares her experiences as an immigrant from El Salvador, the challenges she faced with racism, and her journey towards finding her voice and advocating for others. Stephanie discusses her own struggles with mental health and the importance of therapy. Together, they emphasize the significance of community connection and the power of sharing stories to foster understanding and support.


]]> In this episode of Community Mic, hosts Maria and Stephanie engage in a heartfelt conversation about their personal journeys, exploring themes of community, mental health, and cultural identity. Maria shares her experiences as an immigrant from El Salvador, the challenges she faced with racism, and her journey towards finding her voice and advocating for others. Stephanie discusses her own struggles with mental health and the importance of therapy. Together, they emphasize the significance of community connection and the power of sharing stories to foster understanding and support.


]]> The Community Mic Pod Buzzsprout-17681125 Sun, 17 Aug 2025 12:00:00 -0500 4040 Community, mental health, therapy, advocating, support 1 1 full false